(Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
The Steelers had their final practice of the week today in preparation for Sunday's game against the Bengals at Heinz Field. And it was announced that two starters will be out for the contest -- wide receiver Diontae Johnson (knee) and outside linebacker Alex Highsmith (groin). Defensive tackle Carlos Davis (knee) was ruled out, as well. It's the second straight game that Davis will be inactive.
Johnson and Highsmith both didn't practice all week and suffered injuries in last Sunday's loss to the Raiders. Johnson injured his knee on the final play of the game when the Steelers were down by nine points. The game was all but over. Mike Tomlin has received a lot of flak from the media and fan base for his decision to still have Johnson in the game at that point.
T.J. Watt (groin) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game. Watt was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The All-Pro outside linebacker suffered a groin injury in the second quarter against the Raiders.
Tomlin announced on Tuesday during his weekly press conference that Ben Roethlisberger suffered a left pectoral injury against the Raiders. Roethlisberger did not practice on Wednesday and was limited on Thursday, but was a full participant on Friday and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday.
In addition, cornerback Joe Haden (groin), linebacker Marcus Allen (abdomen), cornerback Justin Layne (Achilles), and Devin Bush (groin) were full participants in Friday's practice and were not listed on the status report.
For the Bengals, head coach Zac Taylor confirmed today that wide receiver Tee Higgins is doubtful. Cornerback Trae Waynes and guard Xavier Su'a-Filo are also doubtful.